Mass Graves, Decomposing Bodies as Fighting Devastates Eastern Congo

By Ollus Ndomu

Heavy gunfire and street battles have left hospitals overwhelmed in Goma, with bodies piling up in morgues, streets, and even Lake Kivu, humanitarian officials said Wednesday.

At least 2,000 bodies have already been buried by communities, while the World Health Organization reports 900 corpses remain in hospital morgues, according to Bounena Sidi Mohamed, deputy director of the U.N. humanitarian office (OCHA) in Congo. Many decomposing bodies are still in areas near the airport and Goma’s main prison.

Aid agencies warn of looming epidemics as morgues overflow. “The challenges are enormous, especially with health risks and a critical shortage of body bags,” Mohamed said. Only 500 body bags remain, including 100 for children.

With concerns over disease outbreaks, humanitarian groups are rushing to bury the dead. “Rapid burial is essential to prevent health crises,” Mohamed said.

The escalating violence in eastern Congo, driven by rebel advances, has forced thousands to flee, worsening an already dire humanitarian crisis.

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Ollus Ndhomu

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